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In a bold move, Australia benched a dozen-plus stars and appointed the team's least seasoned captain in 64 years. Despite the risks, this gamble proved successful, with the Wallabies overcame ex-mentor Eddie Jones' Japan team by four points in a rain-soaked the Japanese capital.

Ending a Slide and Maintaining a Perfect Record

The close win ends a three-game slide and keeps the Wallabies' perfect track record versus Japan unbroken. Additionally, it prepares the team for next week's fixture to rugby's hallowed ground, where their top XV will strive to replicate last year's dramatic triumph over England.

Schmidt's Canny Tactics Bring Rewards

Facing the 13th-ranked Japan, Australia faced much on the line after a difficult domestic campaign. Head coach Joe Schmidt opted to hand less experienced stars their chance, fearing fatigue over a grueling five-Test tour. This shrewd yet risky approach echoed an earlier Australian attempt in 2022 that ended in an unprecedented defeat to the Italian side.

Early Struggles and Injury Setbacks

Japan began strongly, including hooker Hayate Era landing several big tackles to rattle the visitors. However, the Australian team regained composure and sharpened, as their new captain crossing near the line for an early advantage.

Fitness issues hit early, with locks second-rowers substituted—Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and his replacement the other with concussion. This required the already revamped side to adapt their forward lineup and game plan on the fly.

Frustrating Offense and Breakthrough Score

Australia pressed for long spells near the Japanese line, hammering the defense with short-range attacks yet failing to break through over 32 phases. After testing the middle ineffectively, the team finally went wide at the set-piece, and Hunter Paisami slicing through before setting up a teammate for a score extending the lead to eleven points.

Debatable Decisions and Japan's Fightback

Another potential score from a flanker got disallowed on two occasions due to questionable rulings, summing up an aggravating opening period experienced by Australia. Slippery conditions, narrow strategies, and the Brave Blossoms' courageous defense kept the contest close.

Second-Half Action and Tense Finish

The home team came out with more energy in the second period, registering through a forward to narrow the deficit to 14-8. Australia responded quickly with the flanker powering over close in to restore an 11-point lead.

But, Japan responded immediately when the fullback dropped a kick, letting Ben Hunter to score. At 19-15, the match was in the balance, as the underdogs pushing for a historic victory against the Wallabies.

During the dying stages, Australia showed character, securing a crucial set-piece and a infringement. They held on under pressure, sealing a gritty victory which sets the squad well for their European tour.